The Art of Smelling – New Exhibit Opens at Museum of Arts and Design

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Usually a holiday visit to New York City includes stops at some of the major art museums in the world to see paintings and photos. But, this season will also be a time to SMELL.

The Museum of Arts and Design is opening The Art of Scent this week. It is the first exhibit dedicated to exploring the design of perfume throughout history. The aesthetics of olfactory art are displayed in the most unusual way now until February 24th at MAD.

Twelve pivotal fragrances dating from 1889 to the present that profoundly impacted the course of the medium can be experienced and simply smelled at the museum. It is an unprecedented insight into the creative process behind perfumes varying from Chanel Number 5 to Prada Amber.

Each of the scents on display have a special installation designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro that emphasizes the distinct combination of the art and materials behind the perfume.

Visitors are encouraged to concentrate exclusively on their sense of smell with all labels and other visuals removed from the display floor. It is an afternoon for the senses not to be missed.

EXHIBITION ORGANIZATION AND CREDITS
The Art of Scent is made possible by The Estée Lauder Companies—the Founding Major Donor—and other Major Donors, including Chanel Inc., Givaudan, Hermès, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., L’Oréal and P&G Prestige. Additional support for The Art of Scent is provided by Funders Arcade Marketing USA and Guerlain, as well as Diptyque and Women in Flavor and Fragrance Commerce Inc.

On exhibit November 20 through February 24, 2013

ElizaBeth Taylor is a journalist for the new social commentary website www.sensiblesocialite.com.